Saltholme

Thursday : Lingering look at Windows- week 34
The view out across the lake

Looking out across the lake, with the Transporter Bridge in the background.

Maybe you remember that I was at Saltholme nature reserve last weekend with some of my Polish family?  The RSPB website describes Saltholme as “big skies, fantastic wildlife and a friendly welcome in the heart of Teesside”.  We certainly had a good time with our Mad Hatter’s tea party.

The landscape is highly industrial with chemical works and Power Station on its doorstep, but the wetlands are a prime site for migrating birds.  At low tide you can also enjoy seals basking on the riverbanks of the estuary.  The state of the art visitor centre and wildlife reserve has breathed new life into a less than desirable area.

The modern windows of the visitor centre, industry on the horizon.
There are plenty of spotlights!
Panoramic windows come into their own when the weather is inclement.
The hides have “windows” for spying on the birds.
There’s even a little good advice.
Captive birds are stencilled on the windows. to enhance that view
Isn’t that a nice thought?

I was having so much fun with the family, I missed week 33 of Dawn’s challenge, but I’m back to play this week.  Check out the other entries at Lingering Visions.  I bet you’ve seen some windows you’d like to share?

Six word Saturday

6ws-participating-in-bannerFamily fun in all its guises!

A Mad Hatter’s tea party!
With the cutest rabbit
And, of course, the Dormouse.
Not quite sure about the worm but Mariusz liked him.
Mole was good for hugs though.
Arek is the one with boundless energy.
Rafal was endlessly patient with his younger brothers.
And Mum, Grazyna, is always full of smiles.
We did some serious stuff birdwatching in the hides too. Sssh- be very quiet!

Fun is guaranteed when my Polish family from Norfolk come to visit.  The above shots were taken at Saltholme, a local birdwatching nature reserve.  Click on any photo to follow the story line.

The sun shone on us in Durham.
The views were wonderful up on the Cathedral roof.
And the floral displays made us smile.
Especially these little guys!
We found the Hartlepool sampler
Then we crossed a bridge or two. All worn out! (except Arek)

In Durham, we took the Castle tour (Rafal is considering Durham University, based in the Castle, as one of his options).  I was delighted to find that it was the first day of the flower festival in the Cathedral, but it was, of course, busy.

More fun is anticipated today.

What have you been doing with your week?  Share it in Six word Saturday.  The links or the header will take you there.  Hope you have a happy weekend!

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